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Bumblebee collecting nectar on a purple flower.

Bee balm is a vibrant, eye-catching plant that brings a burst of colour to any garden.

With its unique spiky blooms in shades of red, pink, purple, or white, bee balm is a pollinator magnet. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds can’t resist its nectar-rich flowers, making it a fantastic choice for your wildlife-friendly garden.

Growing Reference

Bee balm is also native to North America, which means it’s well-suited to local climates and easy to care for. Plus, its aromatic foliage is a natural pest deterrent, adding an extra layer of value to this already impressive plant.

Bee flying near purple flowers

Light Needs
Bee balm thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight a day for the best blooms.

Soil Needs
This adaptable plant prefers rich, moist, and well-draining soil. Adding compost or organic matter can help keep your bee balm happy.

Size
Bee balm can grow anywhere from 2 to 4 feet tall and spread about 2 feet wide, making it a great middle or back border plant in your garden.

Spacing
Give your bee balm plants about 18-24 inches of space to allow for good airflow. This helps prevent mildew, which bee balm can sometimes be prone to.

Zone
Bee balm is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, thriving in a wide range of climates. It’s a dependable choice for many gardeners across North America.

Nectar Quality
Bee balm’s flowers are rich in nectar, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the summer. It’s a must-have for any pollinator garden.

Companion Plants

Bee balm pairs beautifully with coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and phlox. Its bold blooms and fragrant leaves make it a standout in mixed flower beds.

Purple and yellow wildflowers blooming in garden.

How to Grow from Seed

To start bee balm from seed, begin indoors about 8-10 weeks before your last frost date.

For improved germination, try the “paper towel method”: place seeds on a damp paper towel, fold it over, and seal it in a plastic bag.

Store it in the fridge for about 30 days. After stratification, plant the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them warm — about 70°F — for successful germination.

Goldfinches and bee on colorful garden flowers.

Growing Tips

Keeping your plants happy and healthy

Wild,,Or,Purple,Bergamot,,Growing,In,The,Garden,In,Summer
  1. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooms throughout the season.
  2. Bee balm is prone to powdery mildew, so be sure to provide good air circulation by spacing plants properly and watering at the base.
  3. Divide mature plants every few years to keep them vigorous and healthy.

Pollinator Power

Bee balm’s vibrant blooms and abundant nectar make it a top-tier choice for any pollinator garden.

Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds love to its flowers, ensuring your garden is buzzing with life all season long.

Tiger swallowtail butterfly on purple wildflower.

Bee balm is beautiful, fragrant, and bursting with pollinator power — plant some, and your garden’s visitors will thank you.

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